Tethering Restrictions

Chapter 5 of the City's Code of Ordinance

was amended

October 2014
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Download a printable copy of the Tethering Resources Brochure:

Questions regarding any section of the Animal Chapter of the City's Code of Ordinances can be directed to the Animal Services by calling (336) 578-0343 or by e-mail at:animalservices@ci.burlington.nc.us

Tethering is Prohibited:

Tethering a dog in the Burlington City limits is prohibited except in specified circumstances and never for longer than 7 consecutive days. However,tethering a sick, diseased and/or injured dog, or puppy (a dog that is one year of age or younger) is never permitted.

Exceptions:

Tethering is Permitted for the following specific reasons and only for fewer than 7 consecutive days:

Lawful animal events and hunting activities

To meet the requirements of a camping or recreational facility

Law enforcement activities

After taking possession of a stray and having notified animal control

When a caretaker is outside and within eyesight of the tethered animal

Tethering Ordinance FAQ's:

What are the penalties for violations?

1st Offense:

Written Warning

2nd Offense:

$100 civil penalty (If the animal is not already spayed or neutered, the fine can be waived if the animal is spayed or neutered by a vet and proof is provided within fourteen days.)

3rd Offense:

$250 civil penalty

4th + Offenses:

Violators can be found guilty of a class 3 misdemeanor and punished by a fine of up to $500.

Violations to other sections of the Animal Ordinancewill continue to result in a civil penalty of $50

Civil penalties are to be paid to the tax office within 10 days. Late payments are charged an additional $25 fee. Each day of violation is counted as a separate offense, incurring additional civil penalties.

What is tethering?

Tethering refers to keeping dogs on chains, ropes, or other such tie-outs versus within a fenced structure. It is often defined in reference to a stationary object, but also includes overhead trolley systems. Walking a dog on a leash is not considered tethering.

What are some alternatives to tethering?

Dogs are social animals and want to be a member of the family. Having your dogspayed or neuteredand keeping him or her primarily indoors has many benefits for you, and your dog. For more information about bringing our "outdoor dog" inside, clickhere.

Here are some links to additional resources to make the switch from tethering:

The local non-profit,Animal Resource Friends' provides assistance to needy owners of tethered dogs in Alamance County with fencing, foodVisit their website for more information or if you would like to help by volunteering or donating.

What types of tethers may be used during periods of lawful tethering?

The following are stipulations to the types of tethers that may be used during periods of lawful tethering:

Tethers must be made of rope, twine, cord, or similar material with a swivel on one end or must be made of a chain that is at least ten (10) feet in length with swivels on both ends

The weight of the tether and collar or harness combined must not exceed ten (10) percent of the dog’s body weight.

Only buckle-type collars or body harness made of leather or fabric may be used when a dog is tethered.

The use of a head harness, choke-type collar or pronged collar for tethering is prohibited

Are there any additional rules specific to Trolley systems?

The length of the cable along which the tethering device can move must be at least ten feet, and the tethering device must be of such length that the dog is able to move ten feet away from the cable perpendicularly and attached in such a manner as to prevent strangulation or other injury to the dog and entanglement with objects

What are the rules related to fenced yards or enclosures?

Any dog confined within a fenced yard or enclosure must have adequate shelter, adequate space, and exercise. Enclosures must be structurally sound, in good repair, humanely clean, and provide adequate space. These provisions are defined as follows:Adequate Shelter: a clean, safe place for each animal where it will be protected from natural elements, pain, suffering, or impairment to health.

Adequate Exercise: providing a dog with the opportunity to move in a manner to maintain sufficient muscle tone.
Adequate Space: space sufficient for the animal to make all normal body movements (sit, stand, lie, etc.) in a comfortable and normal position.